Early Saturday, accounts surfaced of major explosions shaking the Iranian capital, following claims from Israel that it had carried out a preemptive military action.
Loud Blasts and Smoke Reported in Central Tehran
According to eyewitness accounts, two loud blasts were audible in Tehran on Saturday. Correspondingly, columns of dense smoke were observed rising over the centre and east of the city.
“The type of these blasts indicates that this is a missile attack,” a media outlet reported, though it did not immediately provide further details.
Background: Rising Tensions and Prior Events
The incident occurs against a background of sharply increased tensions in the region. Major events preceding this attack include:
- American Naval Deployment: A massive buildup of US naval forces in the Middle East, including the movement of carrier strike groups.
- Diplomatic Negotiations: Recent discussions between the United States and Iranian officials on Tehran's nuclear programme ended inconclusively, with suggestions of more talks planned.
- Official Rhetoric: Before the strike, a senior US official had described Iran as “the world’s number one sponsor of terror” and delivered threats regarding its weapons development.
- Ultimatum: Reportedly, a time limit of roughly two weeks had been given to Iran to resolve the atomic standoff or face serious repercussions.
Reaction from Tehran
In response to prior accusations, Iranian authorities had accused the US of spreading “falsehoods” about its missiles programme. They dismissed assertions about weapons development and protest deaths as baseless.
These developments remains fluid, with additional reports anticipated as events unfold.
